RINSE IMMEDIATELY, FOR AT LEAST 20 MINUTES

Don't delay, trying to figure out what got in your eye, or seeking more advice first. The longer a foreign substance remains in the eye, the greater the risk of damage. Why 20 minutes? Eyes must be completely fliushed. Even the smallest lingering particle can do damage.

Of course, if you wear contacts, remove them first.

WHAT TO RINSE WITH?

Sterile saline is best, followed by distilled water. Otherwise, use tap water from your faucet. Or get in the shower and let a stream of lukewarm water run into the affected eye.

CALL US FOR ADVICE, ONLY AFTER RINSING

Depending on what got into the eye and how you feel, you may need further treatment.

A NOTE ABOUT SUBSTANCES

The most damaging substances are alkaline-based, such as bleaches, detergents, or cleaning agents.

Many contact lens wearers have told me that they mistakenly used a cleaner instead of a wetting drop or saline, and paid a painful price! The good news is that acidic substances, like cleaners, are neutralized more quickly and the effects more superficial.